Mitcham is a diverse suburb with parks, a hilltop mansion and an eclectic shopping center. Today an affluent residential area, it was inhabited by the Kaurna Aboriginal people before British colonization. Visit Mitcham’s parks and its stately home to learn about the natural and architectural history of the area.

One of the highlights of the area is Carrick Hill, a hilltop estate with heritage gardens and period décor. Join a tour of the property, which was built in 1939 and is known for its preserved interior and English-manor aesthetic. Study the various art exhibits and collections inside the house.

On a pleasant day, explore Brownhill Creek Recreation Park for its sloped forests full of gum trees and its sheltered picnic areas. The park, which was once home to the Kaurna Aboriginal people, has trees dating back 300 years. Look for bats, frogs, opossums and even koalas among the wildlife popular in these grounds. Endangered southern brown bandicoots, which resemble large rodents, are also occasionally seen here.

For rare rainy days, Mitcham Square Shopping Centre is a good option. Watch some of the latest movies in the seven-screen cinema and browse the items for sale in the shops. Marvel at the impressive fiberglass whale sculpture, Squirt, a work of art that doubles as a slide and small playground for children.

Mitcham is in the southern part of Adelaide, between the city center and the leafy countryside. It is just west of Cleland Conservation Park and its Mount Lofty Summit. From the heart of the city, travel by train to Mitcham Station or drive south for 5 miles (8 kilometers) to get here in about 15 minutes.

While you’re in the region, consider stopping at nearby highlights such as the University of Adelaide Waite Campus, the Waite Arboretum and the Waite Oval.